Letter to the Editor - National Family Caregivers Month

November 1, 2011

Dear Editor:

National Family Caregiver's Month, observed every November, is a nationally recognized month that seeks to draw attention to the Many challenges facing family caregivers, to advocate for stronger public policy, to address family caregiving issues, and to raise awareness about community programs that support family caregivers.

It has been said that there are only four kinds of people in this world:  those that have been caregivers, those who currently are caregivers, those who will be caregivers and those who will need caregivers.

Unfortunately, this is not an exaggeration.  According to the National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA), over 65 million people are family caregivers for older adults.  The services they provide would be valued at more than $375 billion annually on the open market, yet they are rarely paid.  Instead, many give up their own outside employment to give this care despite financial hardship.

Your Ford-Iroquois Public Health Department has a Caregiver Advisory Program in place to support individuals in our community who care for a loved one over the age of 60.  Grandparents who are at least 55 years old and are raising grandchildren under the age of 18 also qualify for this program.  Membership in this program is free for the asking and offers confidential in-home assessment and support services, support group meetings, and educational and training workshops.  Resources such as counseling, respite care, homemaker or home health services, financial and energy assistance and more can be accessed through the Caregiver Advisory Program for those who need them.  Caregivers, you are not alone!

During National Family Caregiver's Month, I encourage you to reach out to a family caregiver you know, whether a neighbor, relative, co-worker, or friend and offer them a helping hand.  Be specific:  offer a ride to church, a nourishing meal, or a free afternoon.  Just a little bit of help makes a big difference for family caregivers.

Sincerely,

Marcia Peznowski, Caregiver Advisor

Senior Services Division

Ford-Iroquois Public Health Department

(800) 282-9993